What to Do After Embryo Transfer: 11 Tips for the Two-Week Wait
Embryo transfer is one of the most anticipated moments of fertility treatment. After everything you have been through to reach this stage, it is completely understandable to feel excited, hopeful and perhaps a little anxious about what comes next.
Should you rest after embryo transfer? Can you go for a walk, return to work or travel home? Are there any activities you should avoid?
At URE Centro Gutenberg, we know that the days following embryo transfer can bring plenty of questions, particularly for patients who have travelled to Spain for treatment.
The good news is that, in most cases, you can continue with your normal daily routine. There is no need to spend the next few days in bed or worry that everyday movements might prevent your embryo from implanting.
In this article, our fertility team shares 11 practical recommendations for after embryo transfer, helping you understand what is safe, what is best avoided and when you should contact your clinic.
What happens after an embryo transfer?
An embryo transfer is the procedure in which an embryo is carefully placed inside the uterus using a thin, flexible catheter. The aim is for the embryo to implant in the uterine lining and establish a pregnancy.
This procedure may take place during a fresh IVF treatment, following the thawing of previously frozen embryos, or as part of an egg donation treatment.
Once the transfer is complete, you enter what is commonly known as the two-week wait (2WW): the period between embryo transfer and your scheduled pregnancy test.
During this time, the embryo may continue developing and implant in the endometrium, the lining of the uterus. Whether implantation occurs depends on several biological factors, many of which are beyond your control.
Naturally, this is also when questions tend to arise. Can you exercise? Is it safe to fly home? Should you avoid certain foods or activities?
Here are our recommendations to help you navigate this important stage with greater confidence.
11 recommendations after embryo transfer
1. Continue with your normal daily activities
One of the most reassuring things to know is that you do not need to put your life on hold after embryo transfer.
Unless your fertility specialist has given you specific instructions, you can walk, drive, climb stairs, go shopping and carry out your usual daily activities.
Normal movement does not cause an embryo to fall out of the uterus or prevent implantation.
2. Bed rest is not necessary
Many patients wonder whether lying down after embryo transfer will improve their chances of pregnancy.
Research has not shown any benefit from bed rest following embryo transfer. In fact, prolonged bed rest is not recommended as a routine measure.
At URE Centro Gutenberg, we encourage patients to return to their everyday routine while paying attention to how they feel.
If you experience mild discomfort, bloating or tiredness, particularly after egg collection, take things at your own pace and rest when you need to.
Remember: feeling anxious or having a busy day does not mean you have jeopardised your treatment.
3. Choose gentle exercise rather than strenuous workouts
Light physical activity, including walking, is generally safe after embryo transfer.
However, we recommend temporarily avoiding vigorous exercise, high-impact workouts and activities involving heavy physical exertion.
This is particularly important if you have recently undergone ovarian stimulation and egg collection, as your ovaries may still be enlarged.
If you regularly practise running, spinning, aerobics or other demanding sports, ask your fertility specialist when it is appropriate to resume your usual training.
4. Travelling after embryo transfer is generally safe
For international patients undergoing IVF in Spain, this is often one of the first questions they ask.
Can you fly after embryo transfer? Yes, in most cases you can.
Flying, driving or travelling by train does not, in itself, reduce the likelihood of embryo implantation. Normal vibrations, movement and changes in cabin altitude do not dislodge the embryo.
If you are returning home after treatment, we recommend drinking enough water, moving regularly during longer journeys and keeping your prescribed medication accessible.
Certain medical circumstances, such as ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS), may require additional precautions or changes to your travel plans.
Our medical team will advise you if this applies to your situation.
5. Follow a healthy, balanced diet
There is no special diet or particular food that guarantees successful implantation.
However, eating a varied and nutritious diet is a sensible way to look after your health during the two-week wait.
Include plenty of vegetables, fruit, whole grains, pulses, healthy fats and good sources of protein.
Progesterone, which is commonly prescribed after embryo transfer, can sometimes cause constipation. Fibre-rich foods and adequate hydration may help relieve this discomfort.
It is also sensible to follow pregnancy food-safety recommendations while waiting for your test result.
You can read more in our article about foods and female fertility: facts and misconceptions.
6. Avoid alcohol and smoking, and limit caffeine
During the two-week wait, we recommend following the same healthy lifestyle advice generally given during early pregnancy.
Avoid alcohol, smoking and recreational drugs.
You do not necessarily need to give up coffee completely, but it is advisable to keep your total caffeine intake below 200 mg per day, including caffeine from tea, coffee, energy drinks and other sources.
Find out more about lifestyle habits that can affect fertility.
7. Drink enough water
Staying hydrated is important for your general wellbeing, particularly if you are experiencing constipation or bloating.
Drink water regularly throughout the day, adjusting your intake according to your needs and your doctor’s recommendations.
There is no evidence that drinking excessive amounts of water increases the chances of embryo implantation.
8. Avoid sexual intercourse until your pregnancy test
Another common concern is whether sexual intercourse is safe after embryo transfer.
Although there is no conclusive scientific evidence that sexual intercourse itself prevents embryo implantation, at URE Centro Gutenberg we recommend avoiding intercourse until your pregnancy test as a precautionary measure.
This advice is intended to minimise potential discomfort, uterine contractions associated with orgasm and minor bleeding that could cause unnecessary concern during the waiting period.
Always follow the individual recommendations provided by your fertility specialist.
9. Avoid swimming, hot tubs and prolonged baths
At URE Centro Gutenberg, we advise patients to avoid immersion in swimming pools, the sea, bathtubs and spas during the two-week wait, as a precaution and to avoid possible interference with prescribed vaginal medication.
We also recommend avoiding saunas, thermal baths and hot tubs, particularly because of the high temperatures involved.
You can shower as normal after embryo transfer.
If you wish to take a brief dip to cool down, check with your medical team first. If you are using vaginal medication, our usual advice is to allow at least two hours after administration, while following the instructions for your specific medication.
10. Check before taking any medication
If you experience mild pain or discomfort after embryo transfer, do not start taking medication without checking that it is suitable.
Paracetamol is generally considered an appropriate option when needed, provided it is taken according to medical advice.
Anti-inflammatory medicines such as ibuprofen should not be taken unless your doctor specifically recommends them.
Likewise, do not start or stop aspirin or any other prescribed medication without consulting your fertility specialist.
11. Keep taking your prescribed fertility medication
This is one of the most important recommendations.
After embryo transfer, patients are often prescribed progesterone, sometimes together with other hormonal medication, to support the uterine lining.
Do not stop, reduce or change your medication unless your fertility team tells you to do so.
Even if you experience spotting, period-like cramps or symptoms that make you think your treatment has not worked, continue following your prescribed treatment plan.
Your clinic will explain what to do once your pregnancy test result is available.
What symptoms are normal after embryo transfer?
During the days following your transfer, you may notice changes in how your body feels.
Some women experience mild abdominal cramps, bloating, breast tenderness, tiredness or light vaginal spotting.
Others experience no noticeable symptoms at all.
Both situations can be completely normal.
It is important to remember that progesterone and other fertility medications can produce symptoms similar to those experienced in early pregnancy.
Having symptoms does not necessarily mean you are pregnant, and having no symptoms does not mean your embryo transfer has failed.
If you would like to learn more, read our guide to early pregnancy symptoms after assisted reproduction.
When should you contact your fertility clinic?
Light spotting can sometimes occur after embryo transfer, including as a result of minor irritation during the procedure.
However, you should contact your medical team if you experience:
- Heavy vaginal bleeding or bleeding that becomes progressively worse.
- Severe or persistent abdominal pain.
- A temperature of 38°C or higher.
- Significant abdominal swelling, persistent vomiting or reduced urine output.
- Any unusual or worsening symptoms that concern you.
Seek urgent medical attention if you experience difficulty breathing, fainting or severe pain accompanied by feeling very unwell.
If you have travelled home after treatment in Spain, remember that you can still contact the URE Centro Gutenberg team with any questions or concerns. You do not have to manage the waiting period on your own.
Frequently asked questions about the two-week wait
Can I walk after embryo transfer?
Yes. Walking is considered a safe form of gentle exercise after embryo transfer and does not interfere with implantation.
Can I climb stairs or bend down?
Yes. Everyday movements such as climbing stairs, bending down, sitting or standing up will not cause your embryo to fall out.
Can I return to work after embryo transfer?
In most cases, yes. If you feel well and your job does not involve strenuous physical activity, you can usually return to work as normal.
If your work involves heavy lifting or significant physical exertion, discuss any necessary adjustments with your doctor.
Can I fly back to the UK after IVF in Spain?
In most cases, you can travel home by plane after embryo transfer without affecting your chances of pregnancy.
Your fertility specialist will let you know if your individual medical circumstances require any additional precautions.
Is it normal to have no symptoms after embryo transfer?
Absolutely. Some women experience several symptoms during the two-week wait, while others feel no different from usual.
Neither situation reliably predicts the outcome of treatment.
Can coughing, sneezing or going to the toilet affect implantation?
No. These normal bodily functions do not dislodge an embryo or prevent it from implanting.
When should I take a pregnancy test after embryo transfer?
The recommended testing date depends on several factors, including the developmental stage of the embryo and your treatment protocol.
Testing too early may produce an unreliable result, including a false negative or, if you have received an hCG trigger injection, a false positive.
It is therefore important to follow the date provided by your fertility clinic.
For further information, read our article on when to take a pregnancy test after IVF.
Looking after your emotional wellbeing during the two-week wait
For many patients, the days between embryo transfer and the pregnancy test are among the most emotionally challenging parts of fertility treatment.
After so much preparation, it can be difficult not to analyse every symptom, search for signs of implantation or worry about whether you are doing everything correctly.
But there is something we would particularly like you to remember:
You do not have to do everything perfectly for your embryo to have a chance of implanting.
Implantation is influenced by a combination of biological factors, many of which are outside your control.
Try to maintain your usual routine, make time for activities you enjoy and seek support whenever you need it.
If you are finding the wait particularly difficult, you may find our advice on managing anxiety during the two-week wait helpful.
At URE Centro Gutenberg, your fertility clinic in Malaga, Spain, we understand that your journey does not end when you leave our clinic after embryo transfer.
Whether you live locally or have travelled from abroad, our team is here to answer your questions and support you throughout this important stage.
Because after embryo transfer, you should be able to get on with your life, knowing that you are not going through this journey alone.
Medically reviewed by Dr. Juan José Sánchez Rosa
Gynaecologist – Specialist in Reproductive Medicine
URE Centro Gutenbergs